4 Nutrient-Rich Superfoods to Boost a Healthy Diet

Photo Credit: Diego CC-BY-2.0 2008

Looking good, feeling good and being healthy starts with good nutrition and exercise. Some foods contain more essential vitamins and nutrients per serving than other foods. It is important that you know the nutritional value of the foods you eat, especially if you are trying to lose weight. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends that people need to eat more fruits vegetables, dairy and whole grain foods. A tasty way to add more of these foods to your diet is to eat more yogurt or low-fat milk, dry beans, eggs, and nuts.

Beans

Dry beans are rich in protein, magnesium, potassium and carbohydrates.  They are an excellent low-fat source of nutrition. In addition to vital minerals and protein, dry beans provide an abundant source of fiber that can help lower cholesterol and keep your digestive tract functioning well. Beans are a good substitute for meat or as a side dish when chicken or turkey is the main course. You can add beans to soups and gumbo dishes for extra nutrition and flavor. Thoroughly wash dried beans and soak them in cold water for about an hour. Cook dry beans slowly over medium heat until the bean is tender.

Yogurt

Low-fat and fat-free yogurt contains more calcium than a glass of milk. Yogurt also contains protein, Vitamin  D and potassium. Some brands of yogurt include probiotics that help to maintain the balance of good bacteria in your digestive tract. Add some raspberries, blueberries, strawberries or oatmeal to sweeten your plain yogurt. Berries and granola added to your yogurt makes it tastier and you get the nutritional benefits of the fruit and grains. Add yogurt to dessert recipes to replace a portion of cream cheese.

Eggs

Eggs are among the most versatile and nutrition-packed foods you can eat. Eggs are loaded with protein, almost all the vitamins and minerals your body needs and they contain choline for healthy brain development. Most people think of eggs for breakfast, but they may be eaten at other times, too. Hard boiled eggs are a great snack, or an egg salad sandwich made with low-fat mayonnaise on whole wheat bread is a nutritious lunch.

Nuts